Mumbai’s sessions court today framed additional charges against three common convicts in the twin Shakti Mills gangrape case. The additional charge was framed under section 376 (e) of IPC which can attract the maximum sentence of death.

Public Prosecutor, Ujjwal Nikam had moved the court for additional charge after the court's verdict came in the telephone operator's case. The three men, already convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in the gangrape of an 18-year-old telephone operator will now face these additional charges in the gangrape of a 23 year photojournalist.

While arguing his application, Public Prosecutor, Ujjwal Nikam contended that repeat offenders should be given a harsh punishment. Nikam argued that as per the amendment, there is a distinction between the first offence of rape and any subsequent offence under the section.

The court has adjourned the pronouncement of quantum of sentence in the photojournalist’s case till Tuesday.